91 Days: Peace Never Lasts Forever (Athene & thejohnnytype)

LadyAthene

LadyAthene

Supernova
Joined
May 12, 2015
Location
West Coast, USA

11th June, 1933
10:51 AM
Lawless, Illinois
Exact Location: Veleno Familigia Mansion

It was supposed to finally come to an end, or so rumors had hinted as much. The Prohibition Era had been one of the most frustrating time-frames, particularly for the mafia families spread throughout the United States. While booze was the main thing that authorities had their eyes on, it was by no means the only things that could be confiscated if one wasn't careful. Drugs, weapons, trafficking, brothels, and many more popular vices that people tended to indulge in.

With the Vanetti, Orco, and Galassia families having steadily fallen apart, new ones rose in its place. Just as empires rose and fall, now was no exception.

Although the Veleno Familigia had most of its members linked by blood, there were a good number who were taken in after proving themselves to the don. One of these such individuals was Pat Hunter, whom was viewed as something of a prodigy given they were also the youngest Veleno member; still barely seventeen, and yet possessing years worth of skills. Particularly in their aim with a firearm. It was always a sight for the more experienced and older mafia members to behold, question, and admire all at once.

And indeed, quite a few had tried to pry and ask for how Pat had gained such skills.

Most were given a rather curt reply along the lines of "Just be glad someone here has them". Some accepted and agreed that was true. Others, naturally, didn't take too well to it. But even those who weren't overly fond of the lip they received from the young teen never dared to act on their reactions, if only to avoid incurring the wrath of their own leader.

There was, of course, a reason for these responses. It was just one of those things that no one needed to know. So, Pat ensured to keep it from everyone, even the don, despite it being a risky gesture.

Naturally, a lot of people had asked their leader why they were fine being out of the loop.

"Don't you know they're holding some shit back from you?!"

"Of course. But if it were important enough, I'd extract that information myself."

The leader in question, Marco Veleno, wove a hand through the air, dismissing the matter.

"Go get Pat and some of the others. It's almost nearing time to meet up with the other Familigia in the neutral ground and get our supplies."

A scoff was the first response, but no further arguments were offered. Within minutes, Pat and three other men walked inside the don's office, wearing expectant expressions.

"It's almost time, as I'm sure you all know," Marco stated, waiting until everyone gave some affirmative gesture or reply. After seeing what he wanted, he looked over towards one of the more familiar faces to him, someone who had been in the Veleno Familigia much longer than Pat. Then again, it was his eldest son, born from his own flesh and blood. It made sense that Marco would trust the man he was now staring at.

"Alessandro? Are the women ready for transport?"

"As is the booze, yes."

"Good. Leonardo and Pat? Go grab the liquor. Alessandro and Lucas? Go get the women."

All four nodded, though it didn't escape anyone that Pat looked less than pleased. Thankfully, everyone would stay quiet until they were out of ear shot. Then and only at that moment did Leonardo speak up, "Really not fond of selling them out, are ya?"

"No. That can be done with them still having their freedom intact."

"So the fuck are you doing with us then? You knew when you joined up, didn't you?"

Leaning down, the young man grabbed one of the barrels of liquor and started carrying it away. An irritated scoff passed Leonardo's lips as he muttered a few words under his breath. Still, he knew they were all pressed for time, and now wasn't the best moment to begin a major argument. Minutes later, the other two Veleno members would arrive, with a dozen females walking in an eerily calm fashion behind the men. Whether they had simply accepted their fates or had them beaten into them was anyone's guess.

"Alright! Off we go!"

Pat would be in the back, with Alessandro driving the van. The engine roared and slowly - but very surely - the vehicle headed to the 'neutral ground' the don had spoken of. An abandoned cinema. Since it had been shut down for a few years, it wasn't under the normally watchful eyes of the police, and thus made these exchanges easier to comply with.
 
Around the same time at the Salvatori Warehouse

It was all true; with the Vanettis wiped out to nearly extinction, the Orcos disbanded, and the Galassias moved on, two families seized the opportunity to rise to power in Lawless, Illinois. One would be the Veleno and the other, Salvatori. They had not wanted their growing empires to collapse in the same fashions that their predecessors suffered, and so Don Marco Veleno and Don Albert Salvatori founded a sort of peace treaty where both profit off the peoples habits without stepping on each other's toes.

Lawless Heaven was still the crowned jewel, the ultimate whiskey, and its most sought after recipe sold to the Veleno from an anonymous seller. The booze trade belonged to them as well as a quarter of the women in the city that operate the brothels. What was left in the market was run by Don Albert; not a man in the city can get his hands on a gun or even an ounce of cocaine without his knowledge. An arguable claim.

To compete with Lawless Heaven, the Salvatori hustled the purest cocaine, known as Chicago Snow.

A crew of six men stashed the drugs in crates the size of gas ranges and on top was a wooden piece with a false bottom filled with soft hay and empty glass jars. The false bottom trick proved useful if ever stopped by the cops or to divert unwanted attention. It was how the family transported all their goods. Three more crates held the same packages of Chicago Snow with empty jars on top and two more crates in equal size contained revolvers and four new Tommy guns.

Among the crew was Andreas Russo and a tragic past was how he came onto the Salvatori family. He'd been orphaned at a young age and as a dear friend of the family, Don Albert and his wife, Lady Rosalina, adopted him as their own. Everyday he worked harder than others in the family to live up to their expectations. Since being chosen to be the next don without a drop of Salvatori blood, Andreas had a lot to prove. He often received backlash for Don Albert's decision especially from his cousin Antonio who would also be on the crew for today's arrangements.

The two lifted the heavy gun crates and loaded them into the back of the box truck. Paolo and Tomas were inside to receive the shipment, using their brawn to push the crates further in and chain them down. With the group effort, they were packed up by 11:00 AM and ready with Paolo and Tomas remaining in the rear for unloading time, Manny would drive, Stefano rode shotgun, and Antonio and Andreas were in Antonio's black Rolls Royce as the blocker car for security.

11th June, 1933
11:17 AM
Abandoned Odyssey Theater

"If we have to wait on them, then they're late. That's that. And don't expect him to say anything about it." Antonio gestured to Andreas over his shoulder with a sharp thumb as he conversed with the men. Everyone had been huddled beside the truck in their usual spot for the trade off behind the building. There was a place where the dumpsters were located that served as an ideal blind spot. "I'll tell'em. I got things to do on a peaceful Sunday like this, you know."

Meanwhile, Andreas had finished the last of his smoke before approaching the others. His face held little emotion despite the irritation that bullied him. There was no arguing with his older cousin when he was like this.

Paolo had a softer side for Andreas, "Hey birthday boy, I hear the Don's letting you get first pick on an escort when they get here. Yeah, I even heard him say this is the finest batch we'll ever get and he paid top dollar."

Today was his 18th birthday and Andreas remembered the conversation with Don Albert well. In fact, he had said, "You don't have many friends your own age and I never see you with female company. Are you still a virgin? We'll fix that. I insist, Andreas! You're at the cusp of your manhood, surely this will bring you over. Just relax, son. I'll arrange everything for you!"

"Yeah, he mentioned it. A whole day with her in a hotel suite on fifth." Andreas answered. The jealousy was apparent on each man's face but he did not share their enthusiasm. Then they all spoke up at once, giving him tips for his first time. Antonio would rather share his own experiences that he accomplished in his early teens and said he thought Andreas was not interested in women at all. "No, no, it's not like that at all. I just... wanted things to happen more naturally."

"Such a romantic." Antonio teased and rolled his eyes.

"Wait, sounds like they're here." And Andreas straightened the creases out of his white coat and brushed off any lint.

"It's about damn time."
 

It wouldn't be until they were minutes away from the cinema that finally, the lingering silence was broken. He didn't look back - mainly because he was driving - but Alessandro's question was very clearly directed at Pat.

"You came prepared, right?"

The others looked over at the don's son, eyebrows slightly rose.

"The fuck's that supposed to mean?" Leonardo asked. He wouldn't have to wait long for clarification though, as Pat nodded and lightly patted the rear pocket of his pants.

"Of course. I always come ready."

Though it couldn't be seen by anyone except Lucas, whom was sitting beside her, he helped confirm what she'd touched. A pistol that had been tucked away and concealed with her clothes.

"H-Hey now, is that really a wise move?!"

"It's been my suggestion, if that helps ease your worries," Alessandro calmly replied.

Leonardo and Lucas looked between one another, still wearing slightly worried looks.

"Let's be real," Alessandro continued, keeping his eyes peeled on the road, "How much longer do you two honestly expect these exchanges to go well? Have you ever considered what'll happen if either side fails to offer enough of the products to the other side?"

The silence all but gave away the obvious reply of 'definitely not', which resulted in a smug "Hmph" passing Alessandro's lips.

"See, this is what me and father have been discussing in careful detail. Don't mistake our what-if for desire, though. We're just being cautious and simultaneously realistic. As long as the Prohibition Era continues, it's going to make these businesses difficult to conduct. People have tried to insist it'll end soon, but we've yet to see actual proof of this. Until that day arrives, we have to assume we'll be stuck in this bullshit routine of avoiding the cops while having to cooperate with the Salvatori Familigia."

"Fine," Leonardo began to answer, "But then why not tell us about this? Why leave the kid with a role like being 'designated gun man'? You trying to get him killed or something?"

"You still have yet to beat me in accuracy or quickness," Pat murmured in a low, irritated tone.

"Not just that," Alessandro chimed in, a ghost of a smirk appearing on his face, "Can you honestly say you'd expect the youngest person to be the one to watch out? Pretend you were on the opposite side before answering and think about that."

"Hmmm ... "

Both Lucas and Leonardo turned to look at Pat, seeming to take the future heir's suggestion literally.

"I suppose I kinda see your point," Lucas admitted.

"Fine. I guess you win for now." Leonardo concurred.

Only after the two others looked away did Pat roll their eyes, something that was only seen by Alessandro and Lucas courtesy of the rear view mirror.

"You know, that cocky attitude of yours will really bite ya in the ass one of these days."

Pat shrugged nonchalantly. "Tell me something I don't know."

Before Lucas shoot a quip over, the van jerked abruptly.

"No more, boys. We're here."

"Only one boy here," Lucas mumbled, getting out alongside Alessandro first, allowing Leonardo and Pat to climb over the front seats and exit the vehicle afterwards. While Pat, Lucas, and Leonardo began opening the back doors to show off both women and liquor, Alessandro would address the Salvatoris.

"Hope you haven't been waiting too long. We intend to make it well worth it though."

Just like before, Pat stuck to dragging the alcohol out, refusing to lay so much as a finger on the women. Although a closer look allowed Pat to better see none from this batch had been physically harmed. In the past, some had needed literal sense slapped into them to help 'tame' them ... some nonsense like that. And yet, it was almost hard to say they looked better.

There was a void in every woman's eyes. Like they had accepted their role as property to a degree that caused them to lose their humanity and thus become marionettes.

The sight made Pat's eyes narrow, though nothing was said aloud.

Eventually, six crates of Lawless Heaven would be set down on the ground of the Odyssey Theater. All twelve women stepped out into view. Most were Caucasian, though there were a small handful of what the don tended to call 'exotics'; immigrants whom had come to America in hopes of getting a new life.

"So like always .... send one of your own over to examine the goods and ensure they're satisfactory."

Alessandro gently placed his hands atop Pat's shoulders.

"He'll return the same gesture with examining your own goods. Who're you going to choose?"
 
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Everything was routine as soon as the Velenos appeared. With all parties present, both would unload their crates without wasting more time than necessary. Such a process had been familiar for the past couple of years but it was only just a year ago that Andreas had started to attend beside his cousin to learn how to handle this part of the business.

So Andreas gave the nod to Paolo and Tomas, the usual muscle of any operation. Their constant pairing under Salvatori orders was why one was hardly far from the other. They knew their cue without any word and climbed into the truck. It would take two men to carry the heavy crates out as it did bringing them in. The crates were lined up on their side of the exchange grounds to be inspected by the Veleno party. Both Antonio and Andreas noticed their own shipment seemed slightly low in comparison to their rival's. Any one here could do the simple math; five crates for six plus 12 women?

Don Albert already assured the two Salvatori brothers before their departure that he paid cash for the women for Andreas's birthday.

Still, with an entire crate short, a cold sweat on the back of Antonio's neck and the look he shared with Andreas tempted the non-blood to handle this transaction on his own. It was why Antonio renounced his earlier statement. The one about bringing up to the Velenos that punctuality actually means something people with lives. With a simple raise of his hand, dismissing his uneasiness and Andreas who nearly moved, Antonio stepped forward. The 23 year-old always assumed responsibility for these meetings and today was just another Sunday.

"You know, and it just kills me to say this as a big fan of booze, but I already know you're gonna have to take one back. Y'see, we're a little short." Antonio crossed the empty lot, addressing everyone present at once. Even to Manny and Stefano who hadn't yet noticed they only had five crates. Then he paused, or at least slowed his pace and waited for Pat to meet him halfway. Addressing Alessandro from one Salvatori to the Veleno heir, "Must've been some miscommunication. On our part, of course."

Andreas's eyes had fallen over each individual's face before landing onto Pat's and finally, the women lined up for trade. There was an urge to upchuck this morning's breakfast that brewed in the depths of his stomach. Though he was unsure of the source of the urge, whether he was just nervous or excited about his first time with a woman or that look that lacked luster and light as they stared straight ahead. Seriously, he wondered, why they should have eyes at all. So he turned away to open each individual lid to the crates as a distraction, ready for Pat. Looking across the paved lot, he recognized Antonio's blue coat and matching felt hat when he finally reached Alessandro and extended a friendly greeting.

For someone as sour as Antonio, such an attitude was out of the ordinary. It was not the attitude he sung about just minutes ago.

"Uncle Albert and my father Davino would like to invite you, Don Marco Veleno, and few of your clan over to the manor tonight. We're celebrating Andreas's manhood. I mean, birthday." He chuckled while reaching for something on the inside pocket of his coat. He soon dropped the idea, finding his hands innocently in the air, probably startling the men that stood behind Alessandro. "Take it easy, fellas. Remember, we're all on the same side." Their suspicious looks eased when he tried again, with one hand still raised while the right hand reached inside for a closed envelope stamped with the wax seal of an ornate S. It contained a letter appropriate for a dinner invitation signed by Don Albert.

"He is your future business partner after all. It's time we recognize that - all of us."

Other than Antonio and Alessandro's conversation, the lot was cold and quiet. Andreas heard every word, everyone did, despite being a few feet away. His ears were tinted red and hot from slight embarrassment and when he released a long sigh, his shoulders released a lot of tension, "You know I can hear you, Tony."

Antonio's smile twitched. Tony. Ugh.

Everyone seemed to be bringing a lot of attention to this 18th birthday. It'd been like this since his first birthday in the Salvatori home from carnivals on the front lawn to train rides around the country. This year there would be a small party in the afternoon that Don Albert claimed was necessary for more gift giving and then a large dinner and desserts. It was the most Andreas could convince his adopted father to dial it back to.

"Anyways, whaddaya say, Alessandro? And then surely we can make amends next exchange."
 

As Antonio began walking forward, Pat took that as their cue to do the same. This was not the very first time he had been chosen to walk over and examine the merchandise, but for some reason, today felt more ... tense than usual. Pat couldn't pinpoint why; or he hadn't been able to. However, when it was explained, Pat lifted his head and saw Antonio was absolutely right. The math was off.

Only by one, but that was all it took with certain things. For one of anything to be missing and .... bam. That could be the end of literally anything, including a business deal like what was happening now.

Alessandro merely chuckled, waving his hand through the air.

"Honestly? We've been more concerned that you give us what we ask for. Amount is ... a bonus, but not nearly as mandatory as you're thinking."

When it was finally mentioned that today was a special day - Andreas' eighteenth birthday - that only made Alessandro's coy smile widen. "See? Isn't that more of a reason to keep the extra this time around? It won't kill us to allow one more bit of booze to go to ya'll."

Pat, meanwhile, looked between the crates of guns, ammunition, and drugs. All were heavy in their own rights, so ... there was no 'easy' pick when it came to trying to choose the lightest box. Looking back to the others with a 'Ya mind helping me out?' sorta look, Lucas nodded and moved forward, knowing it'd otherwise take too long to move everything back and forth.

Alessandro, meanwhile, would stay with Leonardo and speak with Antonio. Oddly, Alessandro would look more serene than anyone would have perhaps guessed. It was almost like there had never been any issues in the past with anyone from the Salvatori Familigia .... even though that was definitely not true. Over the past month - if not a few - things had gotten smoother. Maybe that was just him having wishful thoughts, though.

Either way, he wasn't gonna initiate any unnecessary arguments. Definitely not without a damn good reason, anyway.

Reaching out, he took the invitation in his own hand and opened it, beginning to look over the contents of the letter.

"I can certainly see about speaking to my father about this. We'll probably be able to figure something out and send a few of us over."

By the time he uttered that verdict, Pat and Lucas were working on bringing the last crates over into their van.
 
Antonio suddenly clapped his hands together and rubbed his enclosed palms with delight, "You're one of the good ones!"

He then twisted his body halfway around and gave a more irritated look to the men and waved them over. He of course was gesturing to, and they knew who they were, Stefano who nudged Manny in the side with the sharpest point of his elbow to get his attention and together they walked to retrieve the boxes. After so many exchanges, they still had to be told to take action. The two in the truck were squatted, sweaty, and on standby for the receiving shipment. The doors were left wide open and the opening faced the clearing so they could see.

Sometime in between the parties crossing back and forth with the crates, Andreas took it upon himself to gather the women. The Russo-Salvatori closed the distance between them while his fingers gently tossed then combed his hair back and cleared his throat. "Ladies, if you'll please..." Andreas's voice was low but polite. He was slightly intimidated by the nature of their beauty and it showed. He had extended his arm to guide them on a straight path to the truck and thankfully they moved silently. But the situation grew even more awkward watching them climb in one by one to sit or stand with the cargo as if they were cargo themselves, and then the space grew smaller among them and they were practically shoulder to shoulder. That was before Paolo and Tomas jumped in with them.

Each grabbed a door and Paolo gave Andreas a friendly wink while Tomas teased, "Don't worry, lover boy. I'll put in a good word with them." And before poor Andreas could object, they were slammed shut inside and there was a small maniacal laughter belonging to the man muffled behind the metal walls.

Andreas had been bright red in the face once more when he reached Alessandro and Antonio. He placed a hand on Antonio's left shoulder to make his presence known. "Everything's been loaded up. They're waiting on your say so."

"Everything's loaded?" His cousin asked again.

"Yeah. And checked." Since he noticed Antonio hardly paid attention to the contents.

To Alessandro, just after witnessing Pat and Lucas carry over another crate, "Well I guess that's it!" Then placing one step behind him, half turned in the opposite direction, "We're all looking forward to ya's company tonight. And... haha, if you wouldn't mind bringing a little more female company for the rest of us...?"

Andreas groaned, his voice amplified from frustration, "

"Alright, alright, I'm just kidding. I mean, a little. I'm only saying Andreas doesn't have to be the only one of us to get lucky, eh?"

Manny started up the truck and pulled it around the lot before dipping into the street in the direction of the warehouse. He had gotten a couple of complaints from Tomas and Paolo, as they slammed their fists and knocked on the walls to get the driver's attention, about it being ridiculously hot in the back.

1:03 PM
Front door of Don Albert Salvatori's estate

Antonio discussed with Andreas, in vague detail, his last chore of the day after dropping him off here. He hinted that he'd be meeting with a loyal buyer soon who was interested in more of the Chicago Snow product, deep into Veleno territory. That's what Andreas knew when he said, "It's none of your business, Russo," after asking where he was going if not inside the manor with him. Since none of the Salvatori famiglia would, at least not for Andreas, one day it was up to him to tail Antonio to see exactly what mischief he'd been up to. He orchestrated multiple business exchanges within the rival family's borders and was closer to trouble each time. He'd convinced some of the Salvatori without knowledge of Don Albert to help him carry things out and hustled his own money, promising everyone a cut but only if they swore to secrecy.

Andreas never confronted his cousin about the matter. He couldn't. Tension was tight enough within their own family but now nearly creating a war with the other to feel like a boss was ignorant on his part and it would take a larger force to stop it. Andreas knew he was wrong to think it, but he hoped that force would be-

"Hey, are you deaf? Hurry up and scram already." Antonio restarted his car and sped off as soon as Andreas closed the door behind him, a single bottle of Lawless in his hand. Manny and the others had long since dropped by, just to deliver the prostitutes, Paolo, and Tomas. The back of the truck was unbearably scorching and dark, so it was more of a favor for them while they took the other goods to the warehouse.

Andreas was welcomed by his father in the Grand Entry Hall. The women were lined up and despite the circumstances, seemed in better condition now that they were much cooler. Because of his presence, he was forced to really examine this month's selection, and he made an effort to stay composed under the stress. He supposed it was the guilt of trafficking human beings that made him so nauseous. But he hadn't wanted to look weak in front of Don Albert.

"Ah, the final decision. It's so exciting, no?" Don Albert flashed a wide grin at his son, "It all comes down to this!"

"Yeah you, you've really outdone yourself this time. It's so hard to choose..." Andreas's eyes fell onto one of the exoticas. A Chinese, no doubt. She had the eyes and the dark hair of an Asian native. "Does she speak English?"

"You want one that talks?"

"Well.."

"Oh! I didn't think you were into the name-calling trend..." Albert Salvatori massaged his chin thoughtfully.

"N-no wait, it's not like th-"

"Well I hadn't thought to specify that. Check her tongue, see if it's in there."

Andreas looked to him, appalled, with his mouth agape and eyebrows to the ceiling, "To see if it's in there??"

"Yes! You know the disobedient ones get theirs taken out and-"

"And what if it isn't?"

"Then she doesn't speak at all!"

Andreas rolled his eyes then gazed upon the beautiful woman he favored. "I probably should have just asked you myself. So... what's your name?" He hadn't lay a finger on her, and was not going to force open her mouth and risk seeing a bloody stub of a tongue...
 

Within moments, the last box of ammunition, weapons, and drugs left both Pat and Lucas' hands, landing on the floor of the van with a loud thud. Pat took advantage of knowing no more crates would need to be moved to lean against the inside of the van. Exhausted breaths were the only things the Salvatoris would hear from Pat and Lucas both as the two said nothing aloud, and simply regained their breath.

"You two wanna stay there?" Alessandro jokingly asked.

"Fuck no!" Lucas shot back. Pat chuckled softly, shaking his head from side to side before giving his own reply.

"No, thanks. A few more minutes and I'll be out."

"We both will," Lucas mumbled, Pat rolling their eyes in response.

"Every time I've tried to talk for you, you bitch back at me. Make up your mind."

"Goddamn punk ... "

"Hey!" Alessandro called back, the once playful tone quickly turning very serious. "Not here. Not back home even. You know what? Lucas, you stay there?"

"Bullshit! Why me?!"

"Because you lose your cool way quicker than Pat."

" ... Tch ... " Unfortunately, with that being the only argument to offer, it was otherwise clear Alessandro's judgement had been correct. Pat would walk out a few minutes later, offering the don's son an appreciative bow of his head before climbing in the back of the vehicle.

"Alright, guys. We'll very likely see you later. Sorry you had to hear that. Later!"

Once all the doors were closed, all of the members of the Veleno Familigia would move out of the theater and head back to their headquarters. Pat quietly closed his eyes, fairly assuming that once they returned, there would be quite a bit of work to be done.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________​

.... It hadn't been intentional. But somewhere in between riding in the car and keeping his eyes closed, it seemed Pat had fallen asleep. Light snickering and jesting made his eyes begin to open, the gentle shaking of his shoulders helping him fully awaken.

"You weren't tuckered out that quickly. Were ya?" Leonardo teased.

"Not from the trip, no. But those crates and lifting them repeatedly? A bit."

Leonardo and Alessandro would merely respond with a quick "Heh", but keep it at that. Alessandro nodded behind Pat. "Why not go get everything out and unpacked with Lucas? I'll take Pat to speak with my father regarding our invitation."

" ... You're really gonna take that up?"

Alessandro shrugged, as if to ask why not. "We'd be more foolish to decline it. Wouldn't you agree?" Leonardo started to open his mouth, only to halt as Alessandro rose a hand. "Tell ya what - if it does bother you that much, I can see about requesting you to stay behind. But .... I don't know how well Father will take to hearing that."

Leonardo scoffed in annoyance, eventually letting out an irked huff. "Fine, fine. Don't give him any definite answer. Besides, it'll be his call in the end, so ... "

Alessandro flashed a knowing smirk, waiting for Pat to finish rubbing the sleep out of his eyes before walking inside with his friend. "You did really well. They didn't give you trouble when you walked over, yes?"

Pat chuckled softly, "You kidding? Didn't even check me. "

Alessandro's grin widened as he rubbed Pat's back softly. "You may not have our surname, but you do us a great service." There was a slight pause before Alessandro's voice lowered, "Between you and me? Some days, I feel you're more fit to take over."

That made Pat's eyes widen. "What ... really? Me?"

"Yeah. But ... I kinda figured you'd react that way. I can't blame you. Even I'm not overly fond of the idea much, and I have no say. I definitely envy you, that's for damn sure. You got a lot more freedom than me. Anyway ... I digress. Let's go report back, shall we?"

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________​

Back at the Salvatori mansion, meanwhile, all of the women were staring downward at the floor. It was relatively easy to figure out which were - as Don Albert had worded it - 'disobedient' and which weren't. Even without Andreas making them open their mouths, the same look he'd seen earlier seemed ... more obvious. And, somehow, worse even.

It was clear they were all trying to be brave. A few appeared ready to consider risking breaking into a run, even if it would cost them dearly.

The Chinese woman, meanwhile, lifted her head as Andreas approached her. Her head turned away ... and for a few moments, it may have almost appeared as if Andreas had chosen incorrectly. Finally, however, she would speak, albeit in a very slow, steady tone.

"Yun ... Yun Liu. My English ... it's minimal. I hope it's good enough, though."

"What do you want?"

... No. She knew that. It was a wishful thought, but the truth was, she knew and understood perfectly why she was here. So, instead, Yun asked what seemed like the next and most logical question to bring up.

"Where should we go, then?"
 
"Uuh... Right."

Andreas cradled the liquor in his left arm like it were an infant, with the butt end in his palm and the neck of the bottle snug between the pit of his elbow and bicep. With his free hand he fished inside of his jacket pocket to find it empty. More urgently, he tried again in his jacket pocket. The white jacket front flapped while he searched even though it only took another second to find so when his fingers brushed the folded piece of paper and key he was able to let out a sigh of relief. He thought he misplaced it.

He read to Yun what was on the paper, "There's a hotel right when you enter Lawless called The Palace... a-and I'd like to take you there." Inside the paper was a silver key and chain belonging to his, well, their room. He would sound unsure as the words fell out since this was not how he imagined his first time asking a woman out.

"It's decided then? Then this is good, so now here is what we will do," Don Albert turned to face the two Salvatori men standing behind him at the opposite end of the hall known as Em and Ronny, his personal body guards, "One of youse will fetch some men to take these women upstairs. Lock them in the one of the guest bedrooms with the extra beds. The more beds the better their accommodations." Then he walked to Yun and gently pulled her forward by her arm to separate her from the group. "As for you two, why don't you find a quiet spot and get more acquainted? Ms. Uh, Lin Yu was it? Wow, you really picked a good one and son, she sounds very eager to be with you. I suggest you satisfy those urges of hers before... Wait. Ronny!"

Albert abandoned Andreas and Yun to meet with the man. Even out of sight, his powerful baritone voice shook the chandeliers. He'd been yelling about a strict punishment for anyone of the men if they harm, much less touch any of the escorts. He would deal with them after

For the moment, Andreas figured it be the best time to at least lead Yun away from everyone else. He gestured that they go upstairs without any words, though his sweaty palms spoke volumes. "I apologize for my father's behavior. He's more excited about this than I am..." He was several steps ahead of her, but her not so immediate answer had him pause to face her, "I know it would be difficult to adjust, but you don't need my permission to talk to me. Just... keep that in mind."

They reached the double mahogany wood doors, stained red, that belonged to his bedroom on the right wing of the estate. He opened the doors and held them for her before using his heels to give the bottom corners a forceful tap and they swung shut. Then he had dried his palms on his pants and awkwardly stood to the side. Despite the large bedroom that could hold the large capacity of at least 30 or so people, he did not dare to advance deeper.

"Er.. ahem.. a drink perhaps?" He remembered the unopened bottle of Lawless in his arm and would do anything to stall. "And music?" He offered but still hadn't moved from his position. In fact, his legs trembled slightly. "I-I'm sorry. I'm very nervous. I didn't even want this, any of this." Andreas confessed, a small smile forming on his lips. He sounded exhausted when he said it to someone he doesn't know who probably doesn't care.
 

Yun tilted her head curiously. Not that she didn't know what a hotel was - well, that wasn't completely true. She had at least heard the definition a few times. As far as being in a hotel, though ... no. Most definitely not. And that was where Yun's reaction kicked in. Why'd he wanna take her to a hotel? Surely, this mansion was far better than any hotel Lawless could offer.

Maybe not as private? she thought, her heart sinking slightly.

"I ... if you really want to, I ... please. I'd be honored."

It took every bit of will to avoid narrowing her eyes. Albert wasn't exactly wrong, per se. But he wasn't dead on either. She just wanted to avoid any unwanted abuse, more than much else. Granted, Andreas was pleasantly surprising her. He was acting much more civil than she half-expected; that was certainly a saving grace. Unless ... it was an act?

Well ... that was why she was already expecting the worst, yet hoping for the best to come out of being given over to this young man.

As Andreas began to walk away, she would follow him inside a different room, though not before having to go up some stairs.

"Sorry if this comes off as a bit bitter, but ... what's there to talk about?"

Yun shrugged before continuing, "I suppose if I had to say anything, then I'm glad I'm not alone. Neither of us wanted this. That does make me feel a bit relieved. Even still ... you have a way out. I don't. I can't go home even if I wanted to. I can't really go anywhere ..."

Yun gulped as her voice trailed off. Her teeth quickly latching down on her lower lip as she turned around, her back now facing Andreas.

"You were the one whose birthday was today, yes? Someone's is, anyway. That's what I heard when the other group gave us over."

A soft breath was elicited before she turned around. All of the women, including herself, had been put in what was essentially a nightgown. Any clothes they had originally worn prior to being captured was removed and .... likely sold, if Yun had to guess. She had no real idea, but by now, it really didn't matter. As she finished pivoting, Andreas would see her hands holding onto the hem ... and then her head tilt once more.

" ... You don't want me to strip? You ... really don't want this? That's not just a lie to make me feel fine?"

To say it was baffling was an understatement. It was very confusing. Why did he care so much? None of the others had before. What made him different? The fact he was maybe a year or two older than herself? Odd .. but maybe. It wasn't necessarily an impossible thought.

"Maybe ... music. I don't know if I should drink. I'm only sixteen."

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________​

It had been an easy enough walk. Now, Alessandro and Pat both stood before Don Marco, whom was examining the invitation his son handed over. He'd only been staring for about five minutes, but it felt far longer. After slowly nodding, he looked up between his two comrades.

"They have been more cooperative over the past months. Maybe it would be wise to go instead of tossing this away like I'd normally consider doing."

Alessandro nodded, his smile widening. "I was favoring the idea of going also."

Marco motioned for Alessandro to walk over beside him. He pulled his son forward, embracing him before giving his forehead a kiss. "You do our Familigia proud. Never let anyone tell you otherwise. Now then ... did they say anything as far as a preferred amount of guests?"

"Not amount, but they half-jested on more women."

"Hmph. Half my ass. We just gave them one of our best shipments. If that doesn't satisfy them, too bad. The only woman who may even accompany us is one I'm never sharing."

That made Alessandro blink. "Wait ... are you saying ... you and mother ... ??"

"Given this is going to be Andreas' eighteenth birthday, very likely. It seems like an important occasion. As such, we should meet and accept this invitation with an equally powerful gesture. What could be more impressive than the two dons finally meeting on a civil note face-to-face?"

"I mean ... that is true, of course. But what if it's a trap? I have considered it. I've just been trying to think on the more positive side."

Marco nodded to Pat. "How did he do this afternoon?" Before Alessandro could reply, he saw his father move his head from side to side. "I want to hear it from the lad himself. So, Pat?"

Pat took a moment to clear his throat, finally managing to nod. "Fine, sir. I never got checked or anything."

Now it was the don's turn to smirk. His arms rose, only to fall back atop his lap as he nodded towards Pat knowingly. "Well then, my son, I'd say we have our back-up plan should this be a trap. That being said, here's the golden question; will you accept that responsibility once more today, young Hunter?"

"You can think on it if you want, you -- "

"I appreciate it, Alessandro, but I'm fine. I'll accompany you; that's what agreeing to this task entails. However ... I'll leave the negotiations and fancy talk to everyone else. None of that is my forte."

Marco chuckled, seeming to respect and accept Pat's answer. "That's more than fair enough. I fully intend to choose people who will be able to serve more than just an attendance role for this party. Pat? You're dismissed. I need to talk some more with my son."

"Eh? Why me?"

"You know the members of our Familigia as well as myself. I want your input on whom we should -- "

Those were the last words Pat heard before quietly opening and closing the door to the don's study shut. Not that he wasn't curious, but he had already been told he could leave. If he wasn't needed, so be it. Besides, this would give him time to prepare. But first and foremost ... he wanted some lunch. Pat hadn't eaten since four to five hours ago; something his stomach growling reminded him of.

An embarrassed crimson hue quickly appeared on Pat's face as he turned, making a detour. His room could wait. Apparently, his stomach couldn't do the same. So he went, instead, to the kitchen.
 
His eyes would immediately drop to the floor when she seemingly hinted at showing herself to him by grasping the fabric of her gown. He would then watch his feet saunter across the room, to the nightstand where an old whiskey glass rested atop a coaster. Stale liquor and a light coat of dust swirled at the bottom when he lifted it to his nose. Two days it sat there untouched and if his mind wasn't on other things, he might've excused himself for the state of his room, which was rather immaculate 'cept for this one glass.

"Ahem, don't get me wrong... I'm sure you're an exceptional young woman but no, I would much rather you keep your clothes on... Please." Andreas placed the glass back down and fiddled with the Lawless Heaven until the cork squeaked out. Only after swallowing two generous sips did he find it safe enough to turn around and face her again. He used his coat sleeve to catch a lone drop trailing down the corner of his mouth. The strength of the alcohol burned his nose and throat, causing his eyes to squeeze shut as he recovered from its kick.

"It's Prohibition; nobody's supposed to be drinking."

The sun peaked into the bedroom window as late afternoon drew near, while the softest jazz melody played from a classic record player.

Andreas, having taken another brave sip from the bottle, only loosened the tie around his neck and sat on the bed. "I've only been eighteen for a day but I've drinken? No, drunken, alcohol before." His head hung so low his bare chin was pressed against his chest. His eyes stared at the words on the bottle though he didn't bother to read them. "So you're sixteen, yeah?"

He hadn't wanted to think too much about the older men that have gotten away with having their way with her. And for God knows how long she's had to endure it. But he knew it was morally wrong and inhumane, that it was no way any person should live. It was bittersweet to also think that the next 24 hours or so would only serve as her day off.

"And you say you can't go home. Still, listen: never mind the risk, but Yun, if there was a chance you could be free from all of this, wouldn't you take it?" His head snapped up, fire and determination in his eyes, "And what if I helped?"




Davino Salvatori is another name to remember. His close bond and brotherhood with Don Albert is more recognized than his paternal role as Antonio's father. One would say he is the second in command. So it would be worth mentioning how Davino does not share the same jealous tendencies as his eldest son does. Antonio believed in his birthright to take charge of the household and succeed his Uncle Albert whereas Davino respected the ultimate decision to leave it to Andreas. Don Albert dreamed of an empire in which his legacy would be carried on by his own son, and Andreas Russo was the closest he would ever get.

Something of a fleet of cars lined up on the paved roadway that wrapped around an island of greenery. Centered among them was Davino's signature Red Phantom. He, his two younger daughters ages twenty and fourteen, and several Salvatori men made their approach while others emerged from their vehicles to follow. They were a mix of good friends of the family, business partners and their young heirs. From Andreas's bedroom window, they could all be seen mingling in the garden behind the manor where Don Albert really outdid himself organizing an entire lawn party.

"What? Antonio hasn't arrived yet?" Davino finally met with Albert.

"He stopped by for sure but he's run off, according to Andreas."

"I should have known he wasn't going to take today seriously. I tasked him with bringing Andreas's present." Davino's uneasiness showed in the way he shifted his weight from one foot to another impatiently.

"Surely they're not still going on about that pesky feud?"

"I'm afraid so, brother."

The fight for the Don's seat undermined the strength of the Salvatori family. But none had ever thought Antonio would go so far as to conspiracize against Andreas Russo. The young man arrived at last to the party in a white Mercedes S series, also known as Andreas's birthday gift. They'd bought it quite some time ago while they were still fresh on the market and to no one else's knowledge but his own, Antonio's been using the car for his drops in Veleno territory. The bottom half of the vehicle was covered in dirt and grime, dinged up from forced getaways. Otherwise, an excellent two-seat car.

"Ah, there he is." Davino lifted a glass of champagne to his lips, his eyes on Antonio as his son quietly joined his sisters at a round table.

"Then I will have someone fetch for the birthday boy."

"Will Rosalina be joining us?"

"Not for this gathering, but she will be home in time for the dinner with the Velenos."




Andreas removed the needle from the record since the band downstairs had been playing loud swing music over it. He could not help but to tap his foot and hadn't noticed the little shake of his hips he did during an enthusiastic trumpet solo. So many people had come today, though he saw straight through their facade. The reason anyone did anything with him was always because of Don Albert. Andreas was lonely and perhaps he relied so heavily on Yun because for once in his life he made his own decision.

There was a knock on the door, but Paolo didn't dare to try the knob. Since the door was thick too, it was useless to try talking through it. Andreas set his bottle down and moved away from the window to answer it, only peeking his head out while he hid his body behind the door.

"Haha, couldn't even wait until you got to the hotel?"

"We're... getting acquainted."

"Well I'm sorry to intrude but Don Albert wants you down here with everyone else. You can bring her with you if you want."

"Thanks, I'll uh, keep that in mind." As Andreas slowly shut the door, he'd seen the most sly look on Paolo's face that made his own face burn. "So Yun, care to join me outside or...? You know, if not, you're welcome to stay in here." He pinched the knot in his tie and thrust it up tight. "Otherwise it may be awhile before you can eat..." He spoke so low it was like he was talking to himself.

More loudly, "Is this a bad idea? Bringing you downstairs, I mean."
 

Such an odd one. He ... doesn't want me for that?

Maybe 'odd' wasn't the right word. Either way, the astonishment on Yun's face made it perfectly clear the last thing she expected was to be able to keep her clothes on. Her fingers continued to clutch at the fabric, as if she were half-expecting him to change his mind after sipping some of the liquor. That was only a partly correct assumption. More than anything, the more honest to gods truth was her mind had barely believed what she heard.

Registered, sure.

But ... surely, that had to be a joke.

So ... he just wants to talk?

It at least seemed that way as the minutes continued ticking away. Never once did he make any moves to approach her. Andreas actually kept a distance. Gave her space. Did so many things Yun didn't really plan for. Finally, she let go of the hem of the nightgown, deciding that - for now - he seemed sincere enough with his words.

As a shiver trailed through her body, Yun slid her lower body under the covers, using the sheets to help keep herself warm. Her head abruptly jerked as she heard words she would certainly never have thought anyone would utter. Least of all a member of the same clan who'd bought her.

"You .... what? But .... why?! I mean ... "

Yun gestured to the room around them, her hands seeming to stretch and indicate the mansion as a whole.

"You're the son of this group, are you not? If your family is anything like the one that sold me ... even from their own kin, they wouldn't accept that sorta act. Why go out of your way to help me? A mere stranger you barely know?"

With each inquiry, her voice got lower. Tears formed in the corners of her eyes, but she kept them held back. Slowly, Yun's head lowered as she looked at the bed. "If, however, you mean what you're saying ... I ... I don't know. On one hand, of course." The young Asian rose her head again, making eye contact with the heir, "I think in some regards, everyone has basic desires. Being home falls under one of those; at least I think so. And yet, on the other .... "

Now her hands moved, with the right a bit above her head. Meanwhile, the left just barely avoided touching the covers of the bed.

"I don't know if I'd have much of a home to go back to. My parents willingly sold me off for coin. I'd thus be in China alone. By myself ... and probably on the streets. I'd have far more trouble living there than as ... a slave, I guess. Whatever I am deemed to be now."

Yun went silent, both literally and figuratively weighing her options out before eliciting a defeated sigh.

"I'm not sure what I want ... "

After quietly contemplating for a few more minutes, her arms fell atop her lap. "I feel like I should sleep on that or something," she muttered under her breath, lying on her side, back turned away from Andreas. Seconds after this, the door opened, and she heard one of the other family members talking. About her. Worse off, as if she couldn't hear or understand him. That made her fists angrily grip the sheets of the bed.

I already relayed my name earlier, you pigs! It's Yun! Y-U-N! Not even that long nor difficult to spell!

"That's fine. I'm not very hungry. Appetite's gone."

The disgusted tone hinted she was less than pleased with hearing the brief talk and how she'd been referred to. Her eyes closed tightly shut as another breath passed her lips.

At this rate, it feels like I'm going to die. The difference is how and where.

Maybe not from Andreas, no. But someone in his family, yes. Most likely. The thought scared her as much as it infuriated her. To stay or try to get away; that was indeed the million dollar question this evening, it seemed.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________​

A quick snack later and Pat would be found leaving the kitchen, now going off into his room. He was not honestly looking forward to this party. Were anyone else around, it would be painfully obvious how reluctant Pat truly was to go.

However .... as a member of the Veleno Familigia and - more importantly - a close friend of Alessandro, duty was calling Pat.

And it was being very pesky all the while. He'd tried to hang up on it ... what? Four? Five times now? Quite a few. Finally, he'd been all but coerced to pick up the proverbial phone and cave in, agreeing he wouldn't change his mind at the last second ... even though some part of Pat truly wanted to.

This was going to be boring as fuck; deep down, he knew that.

Ah well. Maybe it'd be brief?

It was certainly a thought, one he'd pray would be the case. Pat nodded a few more times to himself before closing the door behind him. A bit of rustling and rummaging would be heard before water from a shower would come next. Even those outside could discern what was going on; like it or not, Pat was getting prepared. He'd said yes to being Alessandro's plus one and, as such, he wouldn't dare embarrass the heir by arriving in a less than pleasant appearance.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________​

11th June, 1933
20:43 PM
Lawless, Illinois
Exact Location: Salvatori Familigia Mansion

The party had been underway for about an hour or so now. Don Albert would see at least a handful of the Veleno Familigia, including Don Marco, his wife, Alessandro, and Pat.

And, just as the youngest member had correctly guessed, he was ... less than amused.

But God help him, he truly was trying to look ... tolerable? Was that the right word? Maybe, maybe not. He didn't know and almost didn't care. A light nudge from beside him helped the young lad recall why he was worrying at all about how he may or may not be coming off.

"I can't imagine this'll go on too much longer," Alessandro softly whispered to Pat, taking advantage of the fact they had been left temporarily alone.

"I understand. Tell me something though; do you really believe this talk of truce?"

At that, Alessandro paused. His lips pressed together before he slowly nodded. "I want to think they're being sincere on the thought. As for whether it'll end up happening? I don't know. That, more likely than not, is what we're all waiting to find out. This party is either going to be a huge success or a massive failure depending on my father and Andreas's."

"Well ... I don't believe it's going to work out."

Alessandro snickered. "Still the pessimist, are ya?"

Pat casually shrugged. "This way, I won't be disappointed or taken aback when things don't go as planned."

"Damn. That's ... grim logic. But logic all the same. God, I hate it when you have points."

Pat merely smirked, leaving Alessandro alone for the time being. It would have been easy to tease him further; but that was exactly the issue. It would have been too easy and, therefore, not nearly as fun as usual.

Yun, meanwhile, had stayed up in Andreas's room. Despite what Andreas may think, it wasn't out of spite or rebellion. Those had been the right reasons several hours ago, yes.

Now, there was a simpler and - in her mind and eyes - more fair reason.

Pride. She was not going downstairs in little more than a nightgown. With how long it had been, she could only assume one of two outcomes were going to happen; no one would bother taking the time to allow her to walk down, or no one cared enough. Considering how much time had already vanished? It was feeling like option B was probably the right assumption.

Slightly disheartening, but ... not overly amazing.

You were likely right the first time. You are little more than a slave here ...

The noise had kept her awake, as did being in a new and very foreign setting. But at this point? Yun was ready to accept whatever may or may not happen to her. Both tonight and every day afterwards. There just was no win-win for her.
 
The grand stair case of which young Andreas descended its marble steps opened into the Banquet Hall. Golden lights reflected off the diamond patterned floors, glass vases held white flowers, and small fountains of champagne that sat atop cherry wood tables cornered the hall. While clothed tables encircled the space, there was plenty of room in the center for dancing and socializing. The way the decor complimented each other so well made the house feel more like royalty.

Andreas freed his right hand from his coat pocket and picked up a martini glass from a server's tray. He hadn't sipped from it then, first surveying the guests and groups to see which he had the highest chance of mingling with. Don Albert once taught him how these things work so for politics he found himself wandering over to Alessandro to thank him for coming. He politely shook his hand while tagging him on the bicep and made a little more than bland small talk, "On behalf of me and my idiot cousin, thank you for coming through earlier at the Odyssey. It'll help our families with this truce business." Andreas then initiated a pleasant conversation that he at least believed was going well as he searched for the Veleno heir's likes through talks of baseball, gambling, and casinos while pointing out the roulette and black jack tables Don Albert had rented for the event. "I'm more of a poker player myself."

The cozy, warm jazz band that played in background gradually grew louder and played faster until the entire joint was hopping. Salvatori and Veleno men formed a small crowd at the sudden arrival of Lady Rosalina and the Lady Crew, just as flirtatious and bodacious as always whenever they walk into a room. They're usually the life of any party, lead by the beautiful Lady Rosalina, a plump and busty woman with a thick waist and handfuls of thighs fitting comfortably into a cherry red dress and a blonde, curly bob hairstyle. Behind her was a parade of nine or ten women she associated with known as her crew, all stunningly gorgeous in evening gowns and dresses with feathered hats or boas, pearls or diamonds, jeweled masks or headbands, their heels drummed in sync across the hall floor. Ogling men watched, with amazement, these professional prostitutes that danced a planned routine and teased the spectators.

Even Andreas was captivated by a few of their moves that were new to his eyes. He sipped from his glass while Lady Rosalina approached him, "Oh my son, Happy Birthday!" And she left a large, red kiss mark on his cheek, "Come and dance with the girls, they've been looking forward to this all day. And you too! Don't be shy, Mr. Alessandro they love company." She giggled and boldly pushed them into the crowd, if not out of her way, so she could meet with Don Albert and relax with a refreshing drink. Above all the commotion, one could still hear her voice booming how well the party's turned out.

He rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly and shook Alessandro's hand one last time, "Well... you know how she can be..." and he chuckled, weaving his way through dancing couples to find a place to hide away from his very persistent mother. While doing so, he accidentally shouldered into Pat, who he had recognized from the drop off. He recalled in his mind that this man never really left Alessandro's side and so it was amusing to see something new like this for once.

"So sorry, are you okay?" Another thing he remembered was the lad's age. It showed in his face how young he was, probably close to Yun's.

Luckily, his drink hadn't spilled on either of them, but made a little splash on the floor. "Quite a party, huh? ... You should... grab a cup and a girl because Lady Rosalina goes after the shy ones... hahaha, enjoy." And he tried to hurry away before it was too late for himself when someone barely caught him by his sleeve.

"Andreas," that angelic laughter belonging to Elena Salvatori, Antonio's sister, the middle child, "Where are you going? You love to dance." The two would talk, still standing close enough to Pat for him to hear. Andreas would look over to him again, a little embarrassed to mention that he of course loved to dance...

"...not in front of so many people. I'd need a partner anyway because Vikki looks occupied..."

Vikki, being the best dancer in the Lady Crew, was the brunette currently juggling three men.

"Well aren't you even going to consider me?" Her tone indicated she was offended, but in a playful way. Her light brown hair spilled like chocolate in waves over her shoulder.

"Oh, I, I mean yes but... wouldn't you maybe prefer him?"

Elena looked to Pat, who she just noticed for the first time and her dark colored eyes swept over the man's figure, "I wouldn't mind dancing with him at all," in a matter of fact tone, "And you, Andreas, better save me one dance. Promise?" She extended a pinky finger out his way, expecting him to grab it with his own. He hesitated, but he did and was openly full of regret afterwards when he groaned.

"I know we dragged you into this but would you like to dance with me?" Elena's large eyes glimmered as she slightly lowered her head to charm her way into this stranger's arms. She recognized him just as anyone else did, Alessandro's right man. "The Veleno and the Salvatori are starting to get along, after all."
 

As a waiter wove through the crowd with a still half-full tray of drinks, Alessandro reached up and grabbed two. Patrick rose an eyebrow, already asking a silent question. Luckily, the gesture didn't go unnoticed as Alessandro lowered one so it was inches away from Pat's hands.

"Come on. It's a birthday celebration. For real, though; loosen up. Even if only a bit."

Pat stared at the glass ... finally eliciting a defeated sigh. "Only you could be able to come up with such a suggestion."

The Veleno heir shrugged, "If I worried twenty-four seven about the invisible target on my forehead ... it'd ruin me. After a bit, it would. Life's short enough as it is, ya know? Don't waste it. If nothing else? Just join me because it's never fun to drink alone." When Pat didn't immediately reach out, he made a faux pouting face which, in turn, caused Pat to scoff.

"You're far too old for that," he muttered, reaching up and taking the glass.

Alessandro merely smirked, not saying anything out loud. The two clinked glasses and took sips of their own martinis.

"Ahh, birthday boy! There ya are! So, I hope you've enjoyed our gifts from earlier so far." His grin widened as he nodded happily. "No problem at all. I'd like to think we're on the right track towards an incredible future between our families."

It took every ounce of will power for Pat to restrain himself and avoid rolling his eyes at those words. Instead, he merely offered Andreas a polite bow of his head.

"You'll have to excuse him, he's not great with talking and such. This is Patrick Hunter." Pat's eyebrows twitched slightly as Alessandro received an irked glare, "But, as you can note, he prefers going just by Pat."

"Some evenings, I swear you're purposely pulling on my leg whilst hoping you get your ass kicked."

"Hah! Like you could."

"You know I could. But for the sake of why we're here and where, I'll behave."

"For now," Pat quietly added, his head turning away slightly as the 'crew' of women arrived. With few other things to really look at, Pat's gaze ended up resting primarily upon the floor, silently sipping his drink all the while. It wouldn't be until Alessandro spoke up that Pat's head jerked quickly up once again. "Well ... I think I'll take Lady Rosalina's offer up. Assuming any of her gals are still up for some dances."

" .... Huh?"

"Well, I doubt you wanna join in, so what's the problem?"

"You know what that answer is!"

"Ohhhh," Alessandro replied, allowing the single word to trail off. His smirk widened as he set a hand on top of Pat's raven locks and ruffled his hair. "You'll live, okay? I'm sure you'll figure a way to make the time pass. Don't do anything I wouldn't!"

And with that, he vanished into the crowd, causing Pat to click his tongue in annoyance. Right when another waiter arrived, the empty glass was put up on a tray. His arm would barely finish lowering before a bump caused him to stumble a few steps. His instincts to fight kicked in for the briefest of seconds; however, upon seeing it was Andreas once again, he calmed himself.

"It's ... it's fine. Really, it is. I do appreciate the gesture though."

No .... goddamnit. Don't continue to speak. Ugh ...

"I ... already had a drink not too long ago. Look ... "

A slight pause lingered as Pat briefly considered how to go about finishing the rest of their thoughts. For better or worse, they went with the most familiar method; the brutally honest path. But at least there would be no doubts that Andreas was hearing anything less than the honest to gods truth. It'd just be how he'd handle it ... or not.

"If we're being completely, one thousand percent honest here? My presence is for one person and only one .... and they left to take up Lady Rosalina's offer. I'm talking about ... "

It took a bit of peering over some other taller peoples' heads and shoulders - even stepping on his tip-toes a few times - before he managed to find Alessandro.

"Him. I'm just the bodyguard right now. Nothing more, but certainly nothing less."

And of course it would be right after he uttered such words that one of the women would approach Pat. He went quiet again, but now there was a more important matter that he had to think over. Even though what he'd just relayed to the Salvatori heir was completely sincere, it was also accurate to point out that Pat was representing the Veleno Familigia. Not nearly as well as Alessandro, nor as significantly. But he was doing so all the same.

"I umm ... don't know if I'd really be the best choice, m'lady. I'm not the most fun person to dance with. For that matter, I ... don't know how to. I haven't done anything with women before."

The word 'anything' was purposely - and heavily - emphasized. In the best case scenario? She'd get the hint and leave him be. In the worst? Well ... he'd learn how to dance soon enough. Like it or not.
 
Elena looked to Pat. The man possessed the telltale symptoms of someone who did not want to be here; wandering eyes that often met the floor, his posture, how he distanced himself away from the everyone else. And yet, still close enough to help the one person he was most loyal to. She blinked, then looked to Andreas; he carried a lot of the same signs. Yes, she got the idea. Biting back her frustration to maintain the proper image, she gave a curt reply, "Well. There you have it." If it were otherwise, she would have dragged one by their sleeve to the dance floor despite their protests. Boys. Elena turned around to swagger back to her table. She wore an elegant dress, all white tinged with gold and a layered skirt, and a long, thin cape that drifted behind her.

Andreas felt guilty as she intended, finally making it to her table to sit again with her sister who was also shy and a drunk Antonio passed out in his chair. But the man felt more relieved. There was something stirring in his mind that he felt he had to ask Pat about while the two were still standing around, "Anything?" Perhaps he appeared to eager when he asked but it was rare for him to have met a man similar to himself. Most called him the romantic, others figured he was struggling with his sexuality. He was different and the Salvatori men weren't afraid to call him out.

He promised himself that he would not get his hopes up around Pat and it was only a question.

In the background, the Lady Crew danced on and entertained as they were supposed to. Vikki was indeed the most popular that night. Someone had spun her and she wounded up in Alessandro's arms, Lady Rosalina was the one to lead in her duet with Don Albert, then someone braved through to ask Elena. It was like watching a happy ending. How long would that last...

Andreas traded his empty glass for a fresh one and helped himself to some kind of assorted chocolate piece that paired nicely. "You haven't done anything with a woman?" Going on in his mind was a list of things normally done with a female companion. It didn't just stop at sex.
 

Pat, on the other hand, did not look the slightest bit guilty. On the contrary, he was ready to glare at the woman should she try to coerce him into something he didn't want to do. He'd been honest. Perhaps bluntly so, but if she couldn't appreciate the sincereity, fine. That was her issue. Either way, he refused to play along just to make a lady happy. It would go exactly like he hinted; he wouldn't have fun and, by default, would ruin Elena's mood. As far as Pat was concerned, he'd done the young woman a favor ... even if it felt more akin to the exact opposite.

"You heard correctly," Pat calmly replied. "No. I haven't, and I have no shame in replying that way."

Again, he was being very earnest. However, that didn't translate into him wishing to boast about his ... status.

So, he walked through the crowd, waiting until they were in a less populated area before elaborating, "You saw the women we gave you hours ago, yeah? There aren't many others like those. Or, for that matter, Miss Rosalina and her crew, but ... those kinds of women just aren't my type. You can be sexy and not ... tempt every man you lay eyes on. I'd rather be with someone with that mindset. Alas ... "

His head shook.

"Those are too few and far in between. So ... no. I haven't danced, kissed, or do any other intimate gesture with a woman before."

Now an eyebrow rose as he glanced over to Andreas.

"What about you? Did you indulge in any of your gifts already?"
 
The man would take a long and thoughtful sip from his glass while his likeness talked of a brand of confidence he could only wish he had. To be able to boldly say, 'I've never been with a woman,' without fear of the repercussions and bad mouthing sure to follow, well, it was the respect that Pat had that Andreas longed for. But it was easier to see that things were different between them because the Salvatori expected much more from the heir. A man's masculinity was measured by money and sex, never mind his integrity, humility, or ability to empathize. A hurtful but true reality. Lowering the glass, a bit of excess drink clung to his top lip that he swiped away with a flick of his tongue. He'd suppose a real man was one who wouldn't worry about what others thought of him, so long as he continued to do well for himself and those who really mattered. And for that, Pat earned his respect.

"Let's just say you and I have that in common."

His eyes would break away from Pat's to glance up the grand stairwell, remembering Yun and the others.

"No, I haven't. And between you and I," Andreas began with the intent to reveal what he'd be keeping secret from his family. The information wouldn't benefit him in any way so why would he care what the young heir chose to do with them if the bill was already paid? "I won't be. Poor girl's only 16, you know. She's the youngest I've ever seen." Of course being familiar with the business, he knew that the youngest escorts could be as young as twelve. "Regardless, no woman should ever be robbed of their freedom and happiness to service men. Like some sort of product."

Lady Rosalina Salvatori was once an escort. As an immigrant, she had no other skill set and so she used her body as a way to survive. The story goes that her path crossed with Don Albert's and it was true love at first sight. Now she's the manager in the sex industry. She could have left it behind her but rather she chose to embrace her past as it shaped her into the woman she is today. The way Lady Rosalina sees it is that she helps young women recognize their talents to do what they have to in order to live in a cruel world. That there is no shame and if they are going to be prostitutes they're going to be the best damn prostitutes. Her crew is a prime example. Each woman in her circle not only takes pride in their work but enjoys entertaining their clients. And if one ever asked Lady Rosalina for her service, she would say, "The only man who can ever afford me is my husband."

Andreas continued, "Isn't sex supposed to be consensual? And that both parties are supposed to give something and enjoy it together? That's what I hear. Anyways, I'm saving myself for something like that."
 
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